Our new ongoing series, Champions of Design Entrepreneurship, created in partnership with Serena Martin of 24/7 Creative Agency, which offers a rare, intimate look into the minds of industry trailblazers. Featuring first-person accounts from renowned designers, architects, artisans, and industry veterans, each story is a reflection of how they interpret what it means to be both a ‘champion’ and an ‘entrepreneur’ in our field. This sixth installation features Philadelphia-based architecture and interior design firm, Kaminski and Pew:

Pro-bono work

As designers, we possess a diverse and transferable skill set that we actively use to volunteer. We are committed to supporting our surrounding community by offering pro-bono design services to nonprofits and community groups throughout Philadelphia.

Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of helping numerous organizations by providing design expertise, drafting RFPs, and serving as an owner’s representative.

Contributing to our community brings fulfillment to our team and vitality to our city, and presents valuable opportunities to network. Pro-bono projects are also an excellent way for a young design studio to build a portfolio of completed work and connect with new people.

One of our long-standing partnerships has been with the Lutheran Settlement House (LSH) in Philadelphia. Founded in 1908, LSH empowers individuals, families, and communities to achieve self-sufficiency through an integrated program of social, educational, and advocacy services.

Their work spans a homeless shelter, senior center, and domestic violence program. Our collaboration began with furnishing a room in their homeless shelter to create a safe space for teens. From there, we served as owners’ representatives for renovating their main building and drafted RFPs for various other projects. 

We’ve also helped plan the layout of their new homeless shelter and even designed a mobile produce stand for their urban farm. Over the years, we’ve had the pleasure of meeting many wonderful and caring people, and it has been incredibly rewarding to support LSH in its important mission. In addition, we collaborate with our clients to donate their previously owned furniture to local organizations such as Marvin’s Home and Habitat for Humanity ReStore. This extends the life of these pieces and benefits those in need. | To learn more about Kaminski + Pew and see more of their work visit them online.